Carrick's New Era Begins Without Stars
New Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has officially started pre-season training at Carrington, but the squad that assembled in front of him on Thursday is a skeleton crew. With no players back from World Cup duty and defender Matthijs de Ligt recovering from back surgery, only nine senior players were pictured alongside Carrick. That means a golden opportunity for United's academy graduates in the club's first two friendlies: against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July and Norwegian side Rosenborg in Trondheim on 24 July.
Two years ago, then-boss Erik ten Hag used 13 academy players in a similar pre‑season match against Rangers. The class of 2024 had mixed fortunes – only four of those youngsters have since appeared for the senior team. Yet the pathway remains open, and Carrick, a United legend himself, will be keen to assess the next wave of talent.
The Youngsters Poised to Impress
Shea Lacey (Forward)
The 19‑year‑old England Under‑20 international has already tasted first‑team football, making four substitute appearances last season, including the final Premier League game at Brighton. Shea Lacey is a left‑footed wide attacker who cuts inside from the right – a profile that could fit perfectly into Carrick’s tactical plans. Academy coaches hold him in the highest regard, and a strong pre‑season could catapult him into regular first‑team contention.
Jack Fletcher (Midfield)
Jack Fletcher, the son of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, has already helped preserve the club’s proud record of having a home‑grown player in every matchday squad since October 1937. He made his debut at Aston Villa last December and featured in three consecutive matches. A composed midfielder who can dictate tempo, Fletcher’s ability to step up against senior opposition in Finland and Norway will be closely watched.
Harry Amass (Left‑Back)
Harry Amass caught the eye in the 2024 pre‑season before Ten Hag deemed him too slight for regular top‑flight action. Now a year older and more robust, the 18‑year‑old has made seven senior appearances and will be eager to show he is ready to challenge for a starting spot. With Luke Shaw approaching the latter stages of his career, Amass has a genuine opening.
Key Takeaways
- Michael Carrick’s first pre‑season is heavily reliant on youth, with only nine senior players available for the first two friendlies.
- Shea Lacey, Jack Fletcher, and Harry Amass are the most likely academy stars to force their way into first‑team plans.
- United’s historic home‑grown run – dating back to 1937 – means at least one youngster will almost certainly feature in the Premier League opener at Hull City.
- Pre‑season performances in Finland and Norway could determine loan moves or permanent squad roles for several prospects.
- Carrick’s own academy background suggests he will give youth a genuine chance to shine.
Quick Facts
Fixtures: vs Wrexham, 18 July, Helsinki; vs Rosenborg, 24 July, Trondheim.
Senior Players Present: 9
World Cup Absentees: All internationals granted leave
Academy Players Used in 2024 Pre‑Season Opener: 13
Home‑grown Record: Every matchday squad since October 1937 has included a home‑grown player.